The Majority Report with Sam Seder

Joe Muto, explained how he came to work at Fox News, why the word Falafel was informally banned at Fox, why O"Reilly still hates Al Franken, how Roger Ailes's paranoia drove Fox News operations, how Obama's election pushed Fox even further to the right, who is the most shameless Network anchor and how Joe finally left Fox.

On The Better Half: Bolivian President Evo Morales's plane forced landed in Europe, how the United States is threatening international law, new anti choice measures pass in the dead of the night in North Carolina, how important are Obamacare delays? and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 07-3-13-Joe_Muto-PUP.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:10pm EST

Journalist Barbara Garson, explained how the 99 percent have been hit by the financial crises, the stories of loss of homes, savings and jobs, the roots of stagnating wages, why Americans blame themselves instead of understanding the structural factors behind unemployment the disaster of the Obama Administration's HAMP program and why debt needs to be de-moralize.

On The Better Half: Christian radio show host horrified by seeing a Lesbian on the Food Network, David Petraeus, will get an obscene amount of money to do little to nothing at CUNY University and your phone calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 07-2-13-Barbara_Garson-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:21pm EST

Max Blumenthal, explained the forces working smear the Ecuadorian government and Glenn Greenwald, the right-wing lobbying cabal using Edward Snowden to undermine Latin American governance, the problem with access journalism and more stunning double standards on leaksOn

The Better Half: a man could face thirteen years in prison for protesting Bank Of America, Jennifer Lopez serenades a brutal dictator, Wendy Davis hits back hard against Rick Perry and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 07-1-13-Max_Blumenthal-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:16pm EST

Cliff Schecter, explained the politics of the Supreme Court, Scalia's laughable dissent on DOMA, why tv has played a major role in the advancement of Gay Rights, the evolution of support for Marriage Equality and why women's rights will continue to drive progressive politics.

On The Better Half: how Obama positioned himself on Keystone XL, the Pentagon blocks access to the Guardian, why art has been corrupted by an unending focus on money and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-28-13-Cliff_Schecter-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:29pm EST

The Nation's Richard Kim, explained what DOMA did legally, the equal protection and state rights component of the decision ending DOMA, the strategy moving forward for national marriage equality, the incredible heroism of Edith Windsor, Bill Clinton's record on DOMA, what happened with in the Prop 8 ruling and the role popular culture has played in supporting Gay Rights.

On The Better Half: Rick Perry gets lucid for one minute to launch a disgusting attack on Wendy Davis, Random Rush, Pat Robertson wants to know if Anthony Kennedy has "Gay Clerks"?, Chris Christie thinks Gay People should be discriminated against, Obama's ambiguous stance on Keystone and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-27-13-Richard_Kim-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:13pm EST

Salon contributing writer, Rebecca Traister explained Texas's draconian new reproductive laws, Wendy Davis's unexpected and amazing filibuster and how galvanizing will this moment be?

Ari Berman, explained how the Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act, why the ruling helps southern states recreate segregation in Congressional districts, how Justice Roberts "imagined" his way to a ruling and how Justice Kennedy has disgraced himself in his votes on healthcare reform and Voting Rights.

On The Better Half: DOMA overturned, the fake IRS "scandal" dies again, Glenn Beck and Rand Paul wonder if ending DOMA could lead to more Muslims!? And your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-26-13-Rebecca_Traister-Ari_Berman-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:07pm EST

Sam broke down the Supreme Court's gutting of key provisions of the Voting Rights Act.

Shayana Kadida, an attorney with The Center For Constitutional Rights , explained his work against NSA surveillance, why lawyers may be targeted under the NSA spying program, The problem with the term metadata and the Obama Administration's stunning lack of transparency.

On The Better Half: more on conservatives judicial activism, the Supreme Court punts on Affirmative Action, Andrew Ross Sorkin provides a disingenuous apology for almost calling for Glenn Greenwald's arrest, Louie Gohmert says that Sex Ed is just like the Soviet Union and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-25-13-Shayana_Kadidal-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:11pm EST

Nikolas Kozloff, explained the politics of driving the Ecuadorian governments providing safe haven for Julian Assange and Edward Snowden, President Correas's populist policies, the successes and failures of the new Latin American's new left and what comes next.

On The Better Half: does reading Salon make you a security threat, Paula Deen's insane defenders, David Gregory asks Glenn Greenwald if he should go to jail, Georger Zimmerman's lawyer tells an awful joke and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-24-13-Nikolas_Kozloff-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:14pm EST

On today's extended show from Netroots Nation:

Think Progress's Matt Duss, explained the roots of Turkey's protest movement, and what a progressive foreign policy.

Cliff Schecter, explained why Netroots its no longer an insurgency, Immigration reform maybe closer to passing and more reactions to the tragic death of Michael Hastings.

Ari Berman, explained the recent history of voting rights, how the Supreme Court may strike down an essential aspect of The Voting Rights Act and what will the immigration reform bill ending looking like.

Congressman Bruce Braley, explained why he was running for an open Senate seat in Iowa, how he hopes to build on Senator Tom Harkin's progressive legislative legacy and Keystone XL and Climate change.

The Huffington Post's Amanda Terkal and Ryan Grim, explained how Republicans destroyed the Farm Bill and are attempting to decimate food stamps and just how insane are the House GOP.

John Amato & Gaius Publius, explained how Unions could exert more power of the Democratic Party  and how the right has demonized Unions.

And Lizz Winstead, talked about breaking new research on reproductive health and abortion rights, Matthew Filipowicz talked about his epic new Ayn Rand satire and Lizz and Matthew gave movie recommendations.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-21-13-Day_2-Live_From_Netroots_Nation_2013-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:39pm EST

On today's show Daily Kos founder Markos Moulitsas, explained why demographics and cultural trends favor progressive politics.

David Dayen & Digby discussed the landscape of Netroots politics, how Twitter and Facebook disrupted the blogging model, the NSA scandal and why the institutions of Washington fail in monitoring the military industrial complex.

Credo's Political Action Director Elijah Zarlin brought us up to date on Credo's campaign of civil disobedience against the Keystone Pipeline.

The Contributor's Editor-in-Chief Tina Dupuy, explained how the Republican's War on Women and choice is now focused on embryonic masturbation.

And Sam pays more tribute to the great Michael Hastings.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-20-13-Live_From-Netroots_Nation_2013-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:32pm EST

On today's show, David Dayen explained the student loan crises and why the student loan industry is uniquely unfair and corrupt. Investigative journalist explained the massive role that private contractors play in NSA surveillance and the Nation's George Zornick explained where immigration reform stands in Congress now.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-19-13-David_Dayen-Tim_Shorrock-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:35pm EST

Bill Scher debated Matt & Michael on NSA data mining, is the NSA's surveillance legal?whether or not the program has been effective, has the monitoring been abused? and the role of private contractors in gathering intelligence.

Michael explained the new spying revelations, Iran's presidential election results and what arming the Syrian rebels means.

On The Better Half: Rick Scott fights paid medical leave in Florida, George Zimmerman's father is not surprisingly racist and crazy, Rick Perry signs a Christmas bill, vetoes equal pay and makes a factual mistake that is embarrassing even for him and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-17-13-Bill_Scher-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:21pm EST

Sam and Cliff Schecter explained the enduring importance of the NSA scandal, the incompetence of the intelligence apparatus, the straw man arguments against pushing for transparency, the endless historical examples of abuse of surveillance and a Supreme Court ruling update.

Andy Kindler, explained what its like to work with Marc Maron, Kindler gave his perspective on NSA monitoring, he admits to have some tension with Louis C.K. and recommended the Richard Pryor documentary Omit The Logic.  

And your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 06-14-13-Cliff_Schecter-Andy_Kindler-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:26pm EST

Labor historian and journalist Richard Yeselson explained how labor militancy drove labor rights in the 1930s, how the passage of Taft-Hartley Act attacked the organizing and cultural power of labor, why the Congressional backlash against labor was connected with opposition to civil rights, what caused union decline and the best way for unions to move forward.

On The Better Half: Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez says NSA disclosures are "the tip of the icebirg" Sean Hannity's stunning hypocrisy on NSA monitoring and your IMs.

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Direct download: 06-13-13-Richard_Yeselson-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:22pm EST

6/12/13

Sam explained the absurd reactions from Thomas Friedman and David Brooks to the Edward Snowden disclosures, why establishment journalists defend themselves by attacking whistle blowing, Senate coalition pushes for more transparency in the surveillance program and how private companies are abusing intelligence to target the public.

On The Better Half: Immigration Reform moves forward in the senate, Random Rush, Peter King calls for Glenn Greenwald to be prosecuted,  and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 06-12-13-Sam_Seder-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:14pm EST

Sam went solo today and explained why Edward Snowden isn't the main story, the market for private spying and data collection, why the Patriot Act's implementation is a fundamental challenge to democratic culture, how the Director of National Intelligence James Clapper lied the Senate and how corporations profit from the military industrial complex.

On The Better Half: the Obama Administration finally backs down on Plan B and Laura Ingraham has something insane to say about it, Michael Isikoff thinks the government may have a hard time prosecuting Edward Snowden and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 06-11-13-Sam_Seder-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:24pm EST

Professor Juan Cole, explained the corporate distortion of the Constitution, why NSA whistle blowers are turning the tables on the surveillance state, why data mining is a flawed counter terrorism strategy, the origins of Turkey's recent protests and the youth driven global backlash against neo-liberalism.

On The Better half: who is the NSA whistle blower Edward Snoden? Arizona police pull over and arrest a sober man for drunk driving, an atheist prayer needs a Christian "redo and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-10-13-Juan_Cole-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:26pm EST

Cliff Schecter, explained the new revelations of NSA data mining and surveillance, how the Obama Administration has codified a deeply invasive framework for monitoring Americans, will Glenn Greenwald be prosecuted? Is the "Grand Bargain" dead? and is Immigration Reform going to be killed by the GOP?

Film Guy Matthew Weiss, talked about President Obama fighting Patent Trolls, what he has been up to and he recommended the classic comedy A New Leaf.

On The Better Half: one incredibly crazy call, Mitt Romney wishes Hurricane Sandy didn't happen when he was running for President and your normal calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 06-7-13-Cliff_Schecter-Matthew_Weiss-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:31pm EST

Blogger Marcy Wheeler explained the meaning of the NSA's mass surveillance of Verizon phone customers, why the NSA's monitoring focuses on Americans, the problem with data mining in terrorism investigations, why it is alarmingly easy to become a terrorism suspect and why the programs secrecy is aimed at Americans asserting their civil liberties.

On The Better Half: Jeremy Schahill schools Toure,  the Grand Bargain maybe mercifully dead, The IMF admits that it damaged the Greek economy with austerity, Random Rush, George W Bush bikes with vetrans of his wars and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-6-13-Marcy_Wheeler-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:21pm EST

Terrorism Factory, author Trevor Aaronson explained the absurd case of the Liberty City Seven, why only a small fraction of recent terror arrests have actually posed real threats, how FBI paid informants drive frivolous cases and why these cases distract law enforcement from real terrorism threats.

On The Better Half: the problem with testing culture, Chris Christie is a liar, Donal Rumsfeld says Obama might be on the terrorists side and Republican Senator Saxby Chambliss blames military rapes on hormones and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 06-5-13-Trevor_Aaronson-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:50pm EST

Filling in for Thom Hartmann, Sam discussed the Social Security Trustees new report on the solvency of the program with Alex Lawson of Social Security Works, looked at how dangerous the proposed TPP trade bill is with Melinda St. Louis, of Global Trade Watch, discussed the backlash against Monsanto with journalist Aviva Shen, how the Electronic Frontier Foundation is fighting back against Patent Trolls and much more!

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-3-13-Sam_Seder_Fills_In_For_Thom_Hartmann-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:22pm EST

Sam explained Frank Lautenberg's legacy, the Bradley Manning trial begins today, the unique dangers of the espionage charges levelled against Manning, The Tea Part is on to Grover Norquist being a secret Muslim and protests continue across Turkey.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 06-3-13-Sam_Seder-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:37pm EST

Cliff Schecter, explained the multiple criminal investigations facing Michele Bachmann, her crazy resignation announcement, who is the craziest member of Congress, the conservative meltdown about working women, why the right turns economic exploitation into social divisions and John McCain sneaks into Syria and meets with sectarian terrorists.

Isabel Gillies was disgusted by the Republican's ongoing war on women and misogynist comments on Fox, talked about Sheryl Sandberg's new bookLean In and recommended the documentary Waiting For Lightening. 

And the Sam Seder Libertarian Learning Annex was in session with multiple crazy phone calls.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 05-31-13-Cliff_Schecter-Isabel_Gillies-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:51pm EST

Economist and author Gar Alperovitz, explained why reform won't work, the political decline of organized labor, the local roots of the New Deal, why innovative economic reform is happening on the local level, the emerging American interest in Socialism, why serious banking and health reform will begin at the state level and why we are in a "pre history" moment.

On The Better Half: Men need to dominate women says Fox panel, why libertarian theories fail in education and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 05-30-13-Gar_Alperovitz-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:15pm EST

Jacobin founding editor, Bhaskar Sunkara, explained the distinction between liberal and socialistic politics, the modern delusions of liberalism, the disconnect between the elite and grassroots of the Democratic Party, the political success of neo-liberalism, how the left can renew itself and the vital work of building coalitions against austerity.

On The Better Half: Michelle Bachmann's epic insanity on full display in her resignation, Ron Paul loses his UN case and your calls and IMS.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 05-29-13-Bhaskar_Sunkara-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:50pm EST

ObamaCare goes into effect, its working well in California, why statesthat refuse to expand Medicade are hurting health reform efforts, Obama gets aggressive on Judicial appointments and could that mean filibuster reform?

On The Better Half: Eric Holder feels spying on journalists contradicts his image, Sam Seder's Libertarian learning annex returns, why Medicade expansion is a crucial and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 05-28-13-Sam_Seder-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:48pm EST

Cliff Schecter explained how President Obama responded to protester Medea Benjamin's interruption of his speech, Obama's encouraging rhetoric on winding down the "War on Terror",  why Signature Drone strikes are indefensible, why President Obama could have acted much faster on GITMO and what pushed Obama to address these issues now?

Comedian Todd Barry talked about touring with Louie C.K., the Marc Maron and Michael Ian Black dust up, Todd's new podcast, his burgeoning friendship with Ari Melber and he recommended the movie Sexy Beast.  

And Your IMs.

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Direct download: 05-24-13-Cliff_Schecter-Todd_Barry-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:11pm EST

The Obama Administration maps out its new drone and counter terror policies, new disturbing revelations on drone strikes on American citizens in Yemen and the Administration's push to continue the "War on Terror."

Janeane "Katherine Harris" Garofalo, called in from Texas where she enlightened us on the Obama Administration "doomsday weather machine", commented Michelle Bachmann's new promise that God would repeal Obamacare and looks forward to the ending of Abortion in North Dakota.

On The Better Half: Chicago moves forward with low income school closures while shelling out massive subsidies for a new Sports Stadium, Glenn Beck sees a false flag operation at CNN and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 05-23-13-Katherine_Harris-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:28pm EST

Wolf Blitzer tries to force a viral moment in Oklahoma and makes an ass of himself, Apple hides taxes and threatens the Senate, Washington stops efforts to make the economy grow, why the political class only cares about the economic fortunes of wealthy Americans, immigration moves forward without Gay Rights and some liberal pundits minimize the DOJ's attacks on investigative journalism.

On The Better Half: Federal budget cuts literally lead to rape, a stunning session of the Sam Seder Libertarian Learning Annex and your smart and normal IMS and calls.

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Direct download: 05-22-13-Sam_Seder-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:08pm EST

Glenn Greenwald explained the Obama Justice Department's sweeping surveillance of journalists, President Obama's atrocious record on press freedom, how the Wikileaks prosecution theory is now being used to criminalize all investigative journalism, the parallels between the Nixon and Obama Administration on press freedom and how the Obama Administration is codifying the rogue policies of the Bush era.

On The Better Half: The Koch brothers literally leave toxic waste floating around Detroit, Rand Paul wants the Senate to apologise to Apple for investigating its tax avoidance schemes and calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 05-21-13-Glenn_Greenwald-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:47pm EST

Progressive Magazine Editor,Matthew Rothschild explained How counter-terrorism "fusion" centers spied on Occupy activists, the close coordination between corporate interests and law enforcement, why these disclosures are far more concerning than the IRS scandal, how law enforcement intelligence was passed onto corporations and how spying on Occupy undermines detecting real national security threats.

On The Better Half: Jonathan Karl's "Journalism" background, Donald Rumsfeld hit hard on Public Radio's Marketplace, Peggy Noonan writes a crazy over the top column on the IRS scandal and gets called out by David Gregory and your IMs.

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Direct download: 05-20-13-Matthew_Rothschild-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:22pm EST

It's Casual Friday! On today's show Ari Berman of The Nation joins us to discuss the week full of scandals, umbrella-gate and gate-gate and…all the gates! Also, the Florida GOP Hispanic Outreach Director resigns, OFA's failure in organizing for action to fight for Keystone pipeline and what it tells us about the orgnization, and both Sam and Ari are skeptical that Harry Reid would engage in fillibuster reform.

Comedian Jim Gaffigan brings us a movie pick and discusses parenthood with Sam. Also, a song from Jimmy Reefercake, your calls & IMs and more!

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Direct download: 05-17-13-Ari_Berman-Jim_Gaffigan-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:55pm EST

Author, biologist, environmental activist, and mother Sandra Steingraber joins us to discuss why she went to jail for her environmental activism, the toxic assault on our children, and the environmental links to cancer and human health.

In the better half: Sam is sick and tired of these quote unquote "scandals!", Eric Holder puts Darrell Issa in his place, Pat Robertson gives a wife with a cheating husband some wonderful marriage advice, your calls & IMs plus more!

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Direct download: 05-16-13-Sandra_Steingraber-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:09pm EST

In a week full of "scandals," Sam Seder walks us through the real scandals and the imagined ones. We discuss the AP phone records seized by DOJ and the press' coverage on whistleblowers, the IRS investigation into Tea Party groups and why 501(c)(4)s should be looked into. Also Glenn Beck says Obama should be impeached and, of all people, Dick Cheney says we're being lied to on Benghazi.

In the better half, Sam brings you even more of the week's news. Stories like Saudis being investigated over owning pressure cookers, Minnesota becomes the 12th state with same sex marriage, Florida GOP loses their Hispanic outreach manager, and how a family went to a Rep. town hall to stop a deportation. All that, more plus your calls and IMs!

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Direct download: 05-14-13-Sam_Seder-Scandals_Real_Imagined-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:16pm EST

Freelance journalist Isabel Macdonald  joins us to discuss her latest piece for The Nation, GOP's Drug-Testing Dragnet. We talk about how the drug testing industry is a self-licking ice cream cone where Republicans and industry profiteers are targeting high school students, welfare applicants and the unemployed.

On the better half, we discuss the IRS “scandal,” a Libertarian debates us on Benghazi, Random Rush and your calls and IMs!

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Direct download: 05-13-13-Isabel_Macdonald-PUB1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:46pm EST

It's Casual Friday! Cliff Schecter walks us through Benghazi! Benghazi! Benghazi! hysteria, the  Heritage Foundation immigration report author's sorted past, Elizabeth Warren's first bill: big banks get cheap government loans, why can't students? and more!

Also, H. Jon Benjamin joins us to argue with Sam over the Where's Hugo campaign that Bob's Burgers fans across the country have launched!

Also, a song from Jimmy Reefercake, your calls and IMs!

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Direct download: 05-10-13-Cliff_Schecter-Jon_Benjamin-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:42pm EST

Matt Taibbi of Rolling Stone joins us to discuss his latest piece, Everything is Rigged: The Biggest Price-Fixing Scandal Ever. In the interview we discuss, how there is no secret conspiracy because all these scandals out in the open, how the ones making the rules are the ones breaking the rules, and Eric Holder’s doctrine of collateral consequence means the elite have no accountability while the rest of us are of little consequence.

In the better half, we look at the poor fundamentalist Christians who believe they are the minority and are being bullied, blacks voting at higher rates than whites for the first time ever in 2012, and the fast food strikes spread to St. Louis! All that, more AND your calls and IMs!

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Direct download: 05-09-13-Matt_Taibbi-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:19pm EST

Samir Sonti, explained the evolution of the corporate sectors view of public education, why eduction shouldn't be about human capital, the origins of student debt, the enduring lessons of the GI Bill, why free education would boost the economy as a whole, why unions have been essential to all progressive struggles since the dawn of industrial capitalism and the vital importance of teachers unions.

On The Better Half: Students occupy the President's office at Cooper Union College in New York City, Mike Huckabee says Benghazi will be Obama's Watergate, more business trouble for Rush Limbaugh, new shocking numbers on medical pricing and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 05-8-13-Samir_Sonti-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:47pm EST

Filmmakers George & Beth Gage, discussed their new documentary Bidder 70, explained Tim DeChristopher's act of civil disobedience at an oil and gas auction in Utah, how public land across the country is threatened, why the auction Tim disrupted was found to be illegal, the farcical prosecution of DeChristopher and Tim DeChristopher's powerful vision for the future of climate action.

On The Better Half: Random Rush, who used chemical weapons in Syria? end time Evangelicals don't want to do anything to deal with the climate crises because of the second coming, the Alex Jones v Glenn Beck conspiracy arms race and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 05-7-13-Beth_Gage-George_Gage-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:02pm EST

Cliff Schecter explained why Senators who voted against gun control are paying a price, the insane new head of the NRA, the Confederate roots of the NRA, the shooting death of a two year by her five year old brother in Kentucky, unreal Internet gun show promotes gun ownership for children and why gun culture is a dangerous cult.

Film Guy Matthew Weiss diplomatically reviewed the sneak peak of Marc Maron's new IFC show, explained why he has a Star Trek pin on his phone and he recommended two films, Let The Right One In and Tinker Taylor Soldier Spy.  

And your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 05-3-13-Cliff_Schecter-Matthew_Weiss-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:02pm EST

Free Press's Tim Karr explained the background of President Obama's new pick to head the FCC, who will control the Internet of the future, the drive by telecoms companies to control the Internet, Verzion's Orwellian push to block your first amendment on the Internet and why net neutrality is still under threat.

John Mullins, a small business owner from Auburn Alabama explained why he spoke out on how the sequester is hurting his small business at a town hall, and how we can finally get out of the recession and the great outpouring of support he has has received.

On The Better Half: Sam examines his relationship with Marc Maron, The Obama Administration's new ridiculous move on Plan B, PA Governor Tom Corbett thinks Pennsylvanians aren't getting hired because they do drugs and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 05-2-13-Tim_Karr-John_Mullins-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:03pm EST

Matt & Michael hosted today's show. The American Independent's Eli Clifton, explained evidence for chemical weapons deployments by the Assad regime in Syria, who the Syrian rebels are, why the neocon foreign policy approach persists in Washington and President Obama's calculus on Guantanamo.

On The Better Half: Arizona wants no gun left behind, Mike Tyson gives Fox News a civics lesson and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 05-1-13-Eli_Clifton-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:30pm EST

Matt & Michael hosted Nation Sports Editor, Dave Zirin, Zirin described how Jason Collins came out, the historical importance of the first openly Gay NBA athlete, the support for Jason Collins from fellow athletes and politicians, the transformation of gay rights in America and why the town of Steubenville is shockingly renewing the contract of their high school Football coach after his role in a horrific rape case was exposed.

On The Better Half: Fox whines about Eric Holder speaking out against Islamophobia, who Breitabart.com's Ben Shapiro considers a hero and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-30-13-David_Zirin-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:03pm EST

Journalist David Dayen, explained the bipartisan push to end to Big To Fail banking, why deeper financial reform is still needed, why the Obama Treasury department is standing in the way of genuine reform and with the retirement of Max Baucus will the Finance Committee get anymore progressive?

On The Better Half: Matt and Michael took over, discussed calls for war in Syria, talked about NBA player Jason Collins coming out of the closet and Ben Shapiro's disgusting response and took your calls and IMS.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-29-13-David_Dayen-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:24pm EST

Cliff Schecter explained the Washington DC NRA lobbying complex, the companies pulling out of the gun business, is the gun control intensity gap a myth? Pat Toomey sees a approval rating surge after supporting gun control and Kelly Ayotte's plummets after opposing it, the future of gun control, Congress acts on the Sequester in the most absurd way possible, progressives in Congress push against Chained CPI and the mainstreaming of right wing conspiracy culture.

Isabel Gillies, liked the Majority Report studio, Isabel gives Sam good parenting advice, sings along with her song, Sam finally watches a Isabel movie recommendation and Isabel recommended the documentary Bully. 

And your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread 

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Direct download: 04-26-13-Cliff_Schecter-Isabel_Gillies-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:05pm EST

Jeremy Scahill, the author of Dirty Wars, explained what inspired his new book, covering the victims of America's covert wars, The concept of America is a hyper power, the continuity of Dirty Wars from Bush to Obama, the evolution of JSOC,the story of Anwar al-Awlaki, how the FBI pressured al-Awlaki for cooperation, The killing al-Alwlaki's son and how the Obama Administration is codifying the rules of Dirty War.

On The Better Half: Tom Brokow speaks out on drones, Rand Paul cool with drones killing people who rob convinence stores, Boston bomber enjoyed Alex Jones and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 04-24-13-Jeremy_Scahill-PUB1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:01pm EST

On today's show filmmaker Robert Greenwald explained why the Obama Administration had taken such a harsh attitude toward whistleblowers, how whistleblowers saved soldiers lives in Iraq, how Lockheed Martin made defective ships for the Coast Guard, the self preservation instincts of the National Security State, why CIA torturers go free while the agent that exposed torture is in prison and why whistleblowers have more opportunity and the National Security State has more room to monitor people.

On The Better Half: the problem with the phrase weapons of mass destruction, Americans get more concerned about the erosion of civil liberties, The George Bush "Freedom Institute" opens, Mark Sanford whines about having a tough week and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-23-13-Robert_Greenwald-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:09pm EST

A High School student in West Virginia speaks out against a crazy abstinence speaker and is threatened by her principle, why the press is ignoring the explosion at a chemical factory in Texas that has killed fourteen people, why we ignore workplace deaths across the country, how Miranda Rights are being stripped away and the the militarization of police departments.

On The Better Half: New York State Rep calls for torture of Boston bombing suspect and gives a epically silly interview on Fox News and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-22-13-Sam_Seder-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:10pm EST

Cliff Schecter, explained how the right is seizing on the crises in Boston to make stupid comments on guns, why the senate failed to pass control, the insane pro NRA proposal that got more votes in the Senate than background checks, why Democrats who voted against background checks should face primary challenges and why the Boston Marathon attackers could buy a assault weapon today.

Comedian Jen Kirkman, critiqued the media's coverage of the Boston terror attacks and aftermath, why she doesn't want to have kids, why people harass her about not having kids and she recommended the documentaryHit So Hard.  

On The Better Half: More on Boston, the right's exploitation of the crises to push against gun safety, and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-19-13-Cliff_Schecter-Jen_Kirkman-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:21pm EST

The New Republic’s Jonathan Cohn explained the importance of early childhood education, the impact of poverty on educational outcomes, why daycare providers are so unregulated, the opportunity for smart policy in daycare, why some conservatives are open to improving daycare and the best models look like for daycare.

On The Better Half: CNN's day of epic failure, why gun control failed, Jenny Sanford helps destroy her pathologically narcissistic ex husband Mark Sanford, Random Rush, anti semitism in the Oklahoma state senate and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-18-13-Jonathan_Cohn-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:03pm EST

Mike Konczal explained the Carmen Reinhart Kenneth Rogoff thesis, how influential the Rhienhart Rogoff paper was, why there study was riddled with errors, how an excel spread sheet error destroyed the methodology of the study, the perils of wonkery and why there is no accountability for elites.

On The Better Half: President Obama threatens to veto new CISPA bill, Louie Gohmert says "radical Muslims are trained to look Hispanic" and some crazy, crazy libertarians calls and your not crazy calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-17-13-Mike_Konczal-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:58pm EST

The attacks on the Boston Marathon, the importance of how we define the attack, can we use this attack to develop empathy for victims of violence in Iraq and elsewhere? Fox contributor calls for all Muslims to be killed, ridiculous conspiracy theories from Alex Jones and how our Civil Liberties are threatened.

On The Better Half: Glenn Beck rolls out a new Gold conspiracy after the attacks in Boston, Bipartisan Constitution Project confirms that America systemically tortured after September 11th, Random Rush, more disgusting comments from Rush and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-16-13-Sam_Seder_On_Boston-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:45pm EST

Independent journalist John Knefel, explained the hunger strikes at Gunatanmo Bay, the different status types of prisoners held at Gitmo, why eighty six Guantanamo Bay inmates have been cleared of all charges are still being held, the Obama Administration's shameful record on Gitmo and the political implications of the prison.

On The Better Half: Sam breaks down an incredibly dumb op-ed defending Obama's Social Security cut proposal, Howard Dean threatens to leave the Democratic Party, Joe Scarborough tries to attacks Obama and makes absolutely no sense and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-15-13-John_Knefel-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:41pm EST

Cliff Schecter explained where gun control stands in the senate, what Democrats are filibustering gun control, what Republicans are vulnerable on guns in 2014, what is in the senate gun bill,how Mitch Mcconnell is spinning the Ashely Judd tape and how Republicans are reacting to Obama's budget proposal.

David Cross and Sam debated the merits of Marc Maron's success, why David Cross isn't on Twitter, is David ashamed of any of his comedy? Why David is a leading Emoprog and what its like to work with people after you have made fun of them.

And Congressman Joe barton says the Biblical story of the flood proves that climate change isn't a problem, Elizabeth Warren continues to hold bank regulators accountable and Rush Limbaugh whines that Rand Paul is reaching out to Black voters.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread

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Direct download: 04-12-13-Cliff_Schecter-David_Cross-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:12pm EST

Feminsting Executive Editor and Fast Food Forward organizer, Samhita Mukhopadhyay, explained the importance of the living wage movement spearheaded by fast food workers in New york City, the danger of how we frame poverty in America, Michelle Obama's powerful recent speech on guns violence and opportunity and how Anonymous is helping expose rape culture.

On The Better Half: Republicans use Obama's Chained CPI proposal against him, a Gay man arrested for trying to stay with his partner at the hospital, how the media covers North Korea and Iran and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-11-13-Samhita_Mukhopadhyay-PUB1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:20pm EST

Professor Mark Blyth, explained the three big reasons austerity is a problem, the impact of global trade on austerity policies, the history of the idea of austerity, why the United States is in a stuttering recovery and the Europeans have created self created depression by practicing austerity, why growth is the answer to debt and why austerity is such a dangerous and resilient idea.

On The Better Half: ALEC pushes laws to block the exposure of illegal practices on factory farms, why the poor give more to charity, why Chained CPI is a terrible idea, why welfare reform turned out so badly and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-10-13-Mark_Blyth-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:48pm EST

Matt & Michael hosted today's show and explained why Marcio Rubio is sending Jay Z stupid tweets, the many facets and problems with the legacy of Margaret Thatcher, more on the political strategy behind Obama's push on a "Grand Bargain."

On The Better Half: Mitch Mcconnell's planned to run a filthy campaign against Ashley Judd recently leaked tapes show, Fox News insults courageous striking fast food workers and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-9-13-Matt_Michael-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:30pm EST

Investigative journalist Tim Shorrock, explained the NSA's fraud filled "Trailblazer" program, how NSA intelligence was distorted by poorly designed private technology, the four NSA officers who tried to expose fraud and abuse at the agency and how the Obama Administration has pursued a war on whistleblowers.

On The Better Half, Ezra Klein argues that the social safety net is the answer, more on the central importance of Social Security and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread 

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Direct download: 04-8-13-Tim_Shorrock-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:42pm EST

Cliff Schecter explained why Obama's budget proposal is awful, the utter corporate corruption of modern Washington, how the White House is attempting to frame Chained CPI, what drives Obama's obsession with a "Grand Bargain" and where gun reform stands.

Marc Maron and talked about his new projects, patent trolls, Sam reminisced about his opportunities, Louie CK says nice things about Marc's new show and recommended The people watch the Last Detail.

A majority of Americans think marijuana should be legal, Congressman Peter King still angry at Marcio Rubio for voting against Sandy relief, Geraldo Rivera talks sense on North Korea and the military industrial complex and your IMs and calls.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-5-13-Cliff_Schecter-Marc_Maron-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:28pm EST

Firedoglake's Kevin Gosztola, explained the state of the Bradley Manning trial, how the case threatens press freedom, why Bradley Manning is a whistle blower, how Manning released the "collateral murder" video, how the media is failing in covering the Manning trial and why the elite are legally shielded while whistle blowers face intense prosecution.

On The Better Half: busting libertarian myths on rising college costs, Fox's Eric Bolling is upset that Rutger's Basketball coach Mike Rice was fired for abusing players and Your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread

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Direct download: 04-4-13-Kevin_Gosztola-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:52pm EST

The importance of the Indian Supreme Court's decision on generic drugs, why the bar is lower for generic drug production in the United States,why Pharma companies drive inefficiency and threaten global health, why pharma companies are primarily marketing firms , why medicine is a "Global Public Good" and why "free trade agreements" are simply a giveaway for corporations.

On The Better Half: Americans believe plenty of stupid things and why that's also a problem, North Carolina bill would create a State religion, Tennessee bill terrorizes poor parents and children, Random Rush and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on our morning thread 

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Direct download: 04-3-13-Brook_K_Baker-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:03pm EST

Blogger, Digby explained why the Republicans might not be able to reform on social issues, why Republicans will not reform on their economic extremism, why Democrats are reactive and Republicans are strategic in shaping frameworks, the Sequester is starting to hurt lots of people and why the "grand bargain" is politically and morally absurd.

On The Better Half: Google celebrates Ceaser Chavez, right-wingers get upset, Bill O'Reilly tempers himself on marriage equality and the right wing grass roots is enraged, Georgia town makes it mandatory to carry guns and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 04-2-13-Digby-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:01pm EST

In celebration 9 Year anniversary of the Majority Report we are playing the very first edition of the show!

Listen up for interviews with Bill Maher, DaveChappelle, Atrios and Ben Cohen of Ben & Jerry’s.

Direct download: 04-01-13-First_Ever_Majority_Report-9_Years_Later-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:39am EST

On today's show an archived interview with Lawrence Lessig on the corrupting influence of money in politics, why it will take outsiders to reform the system and to redirect power to the people.

Ani Fete of Enroll America explained how health care exchanges will work.

And another great interview from the new Majority Report archives with the Daily Show's Aasif Mandvi on movies and food.

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Direct download: 03-29-13-Lawrence_Lessig-Anita_Fete-Asif_Mandvi-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:21pm EST

3/28/13 

Journalist Steven Brill discusses his blockbuster piece in Time Magazine about what drives exploding health care costs, why hospitals and Doctors routinly overcharge for treatments and what we can do to bring down costs.

Professor James Kimmey, Professor Emeritus of the St Louis School of Public Health, explained why health care is not a normal commodity, and why a single payer health care model is the best way to control costs.

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Direct download: 03-28-13-Steven_Brill-James_Kimmy-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:19pm EST

On today's show Working Families Party, Executive Director Dan Cantor explained what policies his party is fighting for and why voting on the Working Families line supports progressive politics.

From the Majority Report archives, Richard Heinberg author of the The End of Growth: Adapting to Our New Economic Reality explained how cheap fuel, the engine that propelled the last 70 years of economic growth is running out and the three D’s: Debt, Depletion, Disaster.

Direct download: 03-26-13-Dan_Cantor-Richard_Heinberg-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:33pm EST

Heather C. McGhee, the Vice President of Policy and Outreach at Demos, explained Demos's new report on how economic inequality is eroding democracy, why dominance of wealth in politics is killing the recovery, why the austerity caucus is afraid of democracy and the future and how clean election laws are essential for protecting democracy and renewing the middle class.

Cyprus agrees to bailout terms with the EU, NRA chief accuses Bloomberg of being "reckless" on guns, the Tea Party organizes a Fox News boycott and hilarity ensues and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-25-13-Heather_C_McGhee-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:43pm EST

On today's show, Cliff Schecter explained why Paul Ryan is finally unpopular with the press, how the Progressive Caucus budget proposal could get more attention, why 2014 will be the year of reckoning for gun control and why the Republican Party is going extinct.

Film Guy Matthew Weiss, debated the Walking Dead with Matt, listened to a few "presidential" film recommendations and Matt recommended the British television series Torchwood for Matt and Brass Eye for Michael.

And your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-22-13-Cliff_Schecter-Matthew_Weiss-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:44pm EST

Tor Ekeland, attorney for Andrew "weev" Auernheimer and Matthew Keys, joins us to discuss each of their two cases. We discuss how neither defendants actually did any "hacking," how weev found the information he was found guilty of taking on a public AT&T server, what Matthew Keys is being charged of doing to a former employer, how both men are being charged under a draconian laws under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.

On The Better Half: Rush thinks Beyonce is ready to "submit" to her husband, Singapore tackles social inequality, Obama in the Middle East and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-21-13-Tor_Ekeland-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:16pm EST

The New Republic's John Judis, explained what it was like opposing the invasion of Iraq in 2003, why military and intelligence experts opposed the war, the dangers of a non-transparent intelligence apparatus, has the press learned any lessons from Iraq? and Judis reflected on whether Republicans can rebuild their party and he and Sam reviewed the ongoing media myth of a need for a "Grand Bargain."

On The Better Half: a Libertarian caller debates Sam on vouchers, Fox New's Eric Bolling has some almost poetically stupid things to say about Iraq, the union member who punched Fox News contributor Steven Crowder in the face was acting in self defense and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-20-13-John_Judis-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:45pm EST

On today's Show, Sam remembered the invasion of Iraq, the disastrous consequences of the war and why Janeane Garofalo was vital voice of dissent before the invasion of Iraq and why she needs far more credit today for her willingness to speak out.

Becky Bond, the Vice President of Credo Action reflected on her activism against the invasion of Iraq, the crucial role that activism will play in protecting Social Security and Medicare, how Credo helped win an important special election in Illinois and can the Keystone Pipeline be stopped?

On The Better Half: Steve Kornacki takes over for Chris Hayes on UP, the media madness that led to the invasion of Iraq and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-19-13-Becky_Bond-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:02pm EST

Matt Taibbi, explained the myth of JP Morgan Chase as the "one good bank", why to big to fail is the problem, why Washington finally getting fed up with Wall Street, How Wall Street miscalculated  the 2012 election, how JP Morgan Chase hides losses and commits regular acts of financial fraud and is genuine Wall Street reform possible now?

On The Better Half: a race panel at CPAC gets very racist, CNN's Candy Crowley is worried about the Steubenville rapists future and not the victim and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-18-13-Matt_Taibbi-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:24pm EST

Cliff Schecter, explained how Rob Portman's support for marriage equality is based of his sons being Gay, why Republicans only adopt compassionate positions when they are personally effected by it, Rand Paul says stupid things at CPAC and the crowd loves it, why presidential legacies are now defined by slashing programs not investing and Diane Feinstein schools Ted Cruz.

Isabel Gillies explained her parenting techniques to Sam, why her baby slept in a bathtub, Cliff praised Isabel's character in SVU and Isabel recommended the documentaryUndefeated. 

And your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-15-13-Cliff_Schecter-Isabel_Gillies-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:27pm EST

On today's show journalist Christopher Petrella, explained the power of the private prison industry, why private prisons are working to be reclassified as real estate holding companies, who the biggest players in the private prison business are and how to hold the industry accountable.

On The Better Half: How President Clinton inspired the release of the Mitt Romney 47% video, Costco pays its employees well and is still hugely profitable, LAPD shoots a mother and a daughter in their truck and still haven't replaced their destroyed car and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-13-13-Christopher_Petrella-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:30pm EST

On today's show special guest host Tina Dupuy, discussed Bloomberg's sods ban, new police violence in Brooklyn, the truth about Occupy Oakland and Michael does a little Obama.

On The Better Half: Jeb Bush claims his brother is not unpopular, Paul Ryan's new budget and lies, more Bloomberg debate and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-12-13-Tina_Dupuy-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:48pm EST

On today's show Council on Foreign Relations Adjunct Fellow Reza Aslan, explained how settlement is expansion is killing the prospect of Two State solution, what the Chuck Hagel hearings revealed about Washington, Iran's current politics and the best way forward on reaching a nuclear deal with Iran.

On The Better Half: George W Bush great painter? Bloomberg's novel explanation of why to many people use homeless shelters, more Rand Paul debate and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 03-11-13-Reza_Aslan-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:31pm EST

On today's show, Cliff Schecter explained why Rand Paul still sucks, how the right wing turned crazy, why the dinner between Obama and Republican Senators is fine if its just for the optics, explained why the Republican Party is driven by negative emotions and he and Michael reviewed President Clinton's record on Gay Rights.

Film Guy Matthew Weiss, recommended the HBO series Treme, Matt admitted he couldn't get into Treme and he and Matthew had an epic debate on the AMC series The Walking Dead.

And your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 03-08-13-Cliff_Schecter-Film_Guy_Matthew-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:50pm EST

Professor, Bill Black explained why the right keeps pushing austerity policies, how austerity failed Europe,  how the destruction of the social safety net and sluggish economic growth go hand in hand and why the United States could never be Greece.

On The Better Half: Producers, Matt & Michael took over the helm over the Majority Report, as Sam celebrated the arrival of Baby Seder, is Rand Paul worthy of support? North Korea threatens to nuke America and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-07-13-Bill_Black-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:07pm EST

Nikolas Kozloff, author of Hugo Chavez: Oil, Politics and the Challenge to the U.S, explained the complex legacy of Hugo Chavez, Chavez's political history, how Chavez changed the political psychology of Venezuela, where Chavez was innovative and where he failed, how Bush helped create Chavez and the future of the Chavez model.

On The Better Half: Rand Paul filibusters John Brennan, Fox and Friends says that Obama is trying to hurt the kids, Sam explains how Krugman could have easily beat Joe Scarborough on Charlie Rose, Ron Paul's gold filled portfolio face plants, Bill O'Reilly has a meltdown, and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-06-13-Nikolas_Kozloff-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:47pm EST

Washington Monthly Editor Haley Sweetland Edwards, explained why the success of financial reform will be determined by its implementation, what "position limits" are and why they matter, how lobbyists are undermining Dodd-Frank, how the regulatory apparatus works, and what the White House and public can do to guard and implement Dodd-Frank.

On The Better Half: Jeb Bush flip flops on immigration, Sam debates a caller on gun control debate, more thoughts on Alter and Entitlement cuts and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 03-05-13-Haley_Sweetland_Edwards-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:09pm EST

Blommberg View Jonathan Alter, argued that cutting entitlements will guard investment in discretionary spending, guess how Sam felt about that argument? Sam and Jonathan debated whether or not CPI was a cut and agreed that the wealthy should pay more taxes.

On The Better Half: The Romney's remerge to whine, why haven't all members of the progressive caucus committed to not cutting entitlements?Time editor acknowledges that we are all on welfare and your calls and IMS.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-04-13-Jonathan_Alter-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:17pm EST

Cliff Schecter, explained why Bob Woodward is a fraud, does this episode cast the rest of Woodward's reporting into question? Why Cliff Schecter thinks we are living through the "Aaron Sorkin Presidency" Why what served President Obama during campaigns does not serve him in office, why the radical Right Wing members of the Supreme Court are attacking the Voting Rights Act and Lindsay Graham schooled by a Police captain on gun control.

Richard Kind, talked about how he got his part in Argo, Richard explained what he would why he would never be a producer, why he liked Seth Macfarlane's Oscar hosting, defended the Onion's controversial tweet and recommended Witness For the Prosecution and Headhunters.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 03-01-13-Cliff_Schecter-Richard-Kind-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:22pm EST

The Nation's Ari Berman, reported from the Supreme Court on the fate of the Voting Rights Act, explained what Justice Roberts doesn't like about the Voting Rights Act, the conservative "Wall Street approach" to voter suppression, why overwhelming political support for the Voting Rights Act is being used as a means to overturn it and is it possible that this could push electoral reform in Congress?

On The Better: epic Bob Woodward fail, what the Woodward emails reveal about the White House's plans for entitlements, a gun owner shoots at a shop lifter in an attempt to "mark him" and your calls and IMs,

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Direct download: 02-28-13-Ari_Berman-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:17pm EST

David Dayen, explained how sequester cuts will impact the economy, how long it will take to feel the Sequester, the politics of the sequester, why the local media is doing a better job covering the sequester, the teachable moment the Obama Administration is missing, why a government shutdown maybe the best anti austerity strategy and how will the media cover budget cuts.

A stunning exchange between Piers Morgan and a Pizza shop owner who gives discounts to customers carrying guns and Bob Woodward is furious at Obama for not ignoring Congress.

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Direct download: 02-27-13-David_Dayen-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:02pm EST

Law Professor Susan Crawford, author of Captive Audience: The Telecom Industry and Monopoly Power in the New Gilded Age, explained why the Internet should be treated like a electricity, why Wired access is essential for success in today's economy, why private companies have no incentive to provide universal access, the industry push back against her ideas, why market concentration is so high in the wireless market and educating the public on the need for an communications policy.

On The Better Half: two Congressional Republicans come out for marriage equality, voters overwhelmingly think Republicans are out of touch including many Republicans, Boing works to contain its flammable batteries on its Dreamliner Jets, Random Rush and DKNY steals a photographers work and that is just the beginning of their ridiculous conduct.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-26-13-Susan_Crawford-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:28pm EST

Nick Trioano co-founder of The Can Kicks Back, made the deficit hysteria case, but couldn't explain why we need cuts, Sam explained why cost savings in Medicare should come from efficiency, debated Social Security cuts, debunked life expectancy statistics, Trioano sold the "Confidence Fairy" hard and Sam wanted to know what "shared sacrifice" meant.

On The Better Half: Susie Madrak from Crooks And Liars broke down the deficit myth, more myths of medicare funding, the Sam Seder learning annex returned, an epic W impression, Matt gives an update on the WWE-Glenn Beck feud, and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 02-25-13-Nick_Troiano-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:38pm EST

Cliff Schecter, explained how damaging the sequester would be, why America is held back by the lowest common denominator, can President Obama use the sequester as a teachable moment? Crowd boos mother of Aurora victim and John McCain is a jerk, the Chuck Hagel "Friends of Hamas" smear and Ohio Republicans go after Nuns for "voter fraud."

Huffington Post Entertainment Editor, Chris Rosen explained why he doesn't get to go to the Oscars, he and Sam debated Chris's job, he walked us through the nominations for Best Picture and gave Oscar predictions.

Italy's La Repubblica Newspaper, alleges that the Pope's resignation was triggered by the possibility of a new Priest sex scandal, debating the Obama foreign policy and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-22-13-Cliff_Schecter-Chris_Rosen-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:21pm EST

Nick Turse, author of Kill Anything That Moves: The Real American War in Vietnam explained the horrifying brutality inflicted on Vietnamese civilians, why the My Lai massacre was not an aberration, how "Kill Anything That Moves" was systemic a policy, the missing narrative Vietnamese civilians and how we can use Vietnam to better understand U.S. military interventions today.

On The Better Half: all the shocking ways that the Sequester will hurt the economy and society, Sam calls in an AM talk show host and calls him out on deficit fear mongering, Sam debates gun control with a caller and your caller and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread! 

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Direct download: 02-21-13-Nick_Turse-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:35pm EST

Pound of Flesh, author Helaine Olen explained her background as a personal finance writer, how the personal finance industry got started, the story of 401ks, the problem with Suzy Orman, how the financial services industry turns what are political problems into a personal problems, the genius of Occupy, the urgent need to regulate and the financial services industry.

On The Better Half: the hilarious story of how the fake Friends of Hamas story spread through the right wing media, CNN cuts off a conversation on conflict of interest to discuss Michele Obama's bangs, Sam debates the minimum wage with a Libertarian and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-20-13-Helaine_Olen-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:08pm EST

"Katherine Harris", celebrated Presidents Day in Shelby County Alabama, reacted to President Obama's SOTU, explained that "white people have it hard enough" she and Sam argued about Stop and Frisk, the Jesus "entrance strategy", what's going on with Michele and Marcus Bachman and gives her take on the KeystoneXL pipeline.

Gary Cohen Director, Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight at the Department of Health A Human Services, explained how health exchanges will work and the why the exchanges have common national platforms.

On The Better Half: Fox does an "in depth" report on Pre-School education and shockingly get almost everything wrong, Ron Paul's UN crusade pushes forward, all wage gains captured by the 1%, retirement funds are decimated and Simpson-Bowles still pushing their snake oil and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-19-13-Katherine_Harris-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:35pm EST

Cliff Schecter, explained why "moderate" Republicans voted to filibuster Chuck Hagel, why Republicans keep pushing Benghazi, how the Hagel debacle shows once again the urgent need for filibuster reform, Cliff's frustration with Harry Reid, why President Obama's new progressive rhetoric is so important, how President Obama is starting to make Republicans pay a political price for blocking progress and Marco Rubio repeats the same old Republican talking points.

Isabel Gillies and Film Guy Matthew Weiss, review their film recommendations, Isabel'sWin Win and Matthew's The Kid With A Bike, Isabel and Matthew compare Valentines Day experiences and Sam decides who gave the better movie recommendation.

On The Better Half: debating Zero Dark Thirty, how retirement benefits are taxed, Fox hosts laugh at 102-voter waiting in line to vote, Elizabeth Warren destroys banking regulators and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 02-15-13-Cliff_Schecter-Isabel_Gillies-Matthew_Weiss-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:44pm EST

Robert F. Kennedy Jr, explained why he was arrested for protesting the Keystone XL Pipeline at the White House yesterday, why the Pipeline is fraudulent, how it will destroy local economies and commons, why in cases where democracy has failed civil disobedience is necessary, how oil companies have bought Congress, why private corporate power is the greatest threat to democracy, how dirty industries run off corporate welfare, the job creation myth and why Kennedy does not think that the Pipeline will be approved.

On The Better Half: Ron Paul sues supporters through the UN, Marco Rubio offers ludicrous reason for opposing increasing the Minimum Wage, Scott Brown finds his true calling heads to Fox, Random Rush and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-14-13-Robert_F_Kennedy-JR-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:27pm EST

The Progressive Campaign Change Committee's Adam Green, explained why he is still worried about Social Security, why progressive "sacred cows" are better than Republican sacred cows, where Obama pushed the agenda in the right direction and where he pushed it in the wrong direction, Obama's powerful moment on gun violence, President Obama's call for a higher minimum wage and Bold Progressives push against Mitch McConnell.

Crooks And Liars, founder John Amato, explained why President Obama helped the Democratic cause with this SOTU, how Chris Matthews  destroyed Rubio's response and why Republicans are deluded about Obama's talent.

On The Better Half: The gulp heard around the world, Marco Rubio reminds Sam of a infomercial pitch man, a Libertarian responds to Obama's SOTU and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-13-13-Adam_Green-John_Amato-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:02pm EST

Blogger and USA Today contributor Atrios (Duncan Black), explained what a true cost of living adjustment for the elderly would look like, the evolution of pension plans, the false promise of retirement plans, new retirees facing poverty, why politicians won't run on increasing Social Security benefits, the assumption that life should be an eternal struggle, and the Republicans singular policy focus on cutting taxes for rich people.

On The Better Half: the Sam Seder Learning Annex continues with a new Libertarian caller, the revolutionary implication of the Kill List on Due Process, MSNBC's Toure makes a case for drone strikes and brings back memories of bad country music and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-12-13-Atrios-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:02pm EST

Filmmaker Benny Brunner, discussed his new film The Great Book Robbery, explained how the Palestinian rare books were lost during the formation of Israel, how his film undercuts the myths surrounding the founding of the state of Israel, why we need to acknowledge that the Palestinians had a thriving culture, why recognizing the real history will help everyone and what Benny hopes his film will accomplish.

KC Boyd, author of Being Christian, explained the fundamentalist drive to control government, what is Dominionism, why the Chuck Hagel confirmation hearings reveal fundamentalist thinking, Boyd's introduction to Christian extremist code language, how fundamentalists play politics and what the Christian Zionist movement wants.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-11-13-Benny_Brunner-KC_Boyd-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:58am EST

Chris Hayes, explained why the Brennan hearings focused so heavily on institutional jockeying, the policy consensus on targeted killing, the subjective reasoning behind the targeted killing program, how and when could the "War on Terror" end? The importance of defining peace time counter terrorism and the austerity caucus have lost some of their power but economic liberalism still lags behind social liberalism.

Frank Conniff, talked about his memories of working on Mystery Science Theater 3000 and his time working with Sam at Air America, the comedy pitches he is presenting to Al Jazeera, the writing he is doing for Current and he recommended the science fiction movie Looper.

On The Better Half: Fox Business says solar works in Germany because of how sunny Germany, the Bush family email accounts have been hacked, John Brennan won't say whether or not water boarding is torture, Senator Richard Burr, takes the Brennan hearing as an opportunity to make a water boarding joke, the insights of a Fox News "Strategic Analyst" and your calls and IMS.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-08-13-Chris_Hayes-Frank_Conniff-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:42pm EST

Ari Berman, explained the history of voter disenfranchisement, what states are covered by the Voting Rights Act, is there a federally guaranteed right to vote?, the collapsing bipartisan support for the Voting Rights Act and the financier behind the push to overturn the Voting Rights Act and Chief Justice John Roberts long strong opposition to section five of the Voting Rights Act.

On The Better Half: Marcio Rubio plays to the base and gets absurd on climate change, Idaho lawmaker wants every kid to read Ayn Rand, New York Times reveals drone site in Saudi Arabia, more on the right-wing conspiracy mind and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-07-13-Ari_Berman-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:05pm EST

Harper's Magazine's,Scott Horton, explained what is in the Justice Departments white paper on drone policy, why the definition of imminence in the memo is crucial, what government officials have legal authority to order drone strikes according to the memo, how the memo reads as a retroactive justification of policy and Will the John Brennan nomination hearings bring out more information?

On The Better Half: we hear from a recovering Libertarian, Sam talks about the new documentary The Great Book Robbery, a libertarian caller has problems with trains and health care and wants a "fierce argument" from Sam and your calls and IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-06-13-Scott_Horton-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:45pm EST

David Dayen, explained how extreme anti tax policies destroyed California's finances, how California progressives changed the shape of the electorate and what's next in California's budget battles. The Justice Department's case against S&P, why credit ratings agencies are driven by conflict of interest and good signs from Elizabeth Warren.

On The Better Half: new revelations on the Obama Administration's drone program, the precedent that BushAdministration's torture program set for targeted killings and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-05-13-David_Dayen-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:35pm EST

The Electronic Frontier Foundation's Julie Samuel's explained how patent trolls work, why podcasts are threatened by the troll business, how patent rules don't reflect technological changes and the best ways to protect businesses from trolls.

The President and CEO of Common Cause, Bob Edgar, explained ALEC's attempt to establish itself as a charity and why he is so disappointed in the Senate's filibuster reform agreement.

On The Better Half: New York politicians threaten to cut funding for Brooklyn College for holding an event on the BDS movement, lots of Harvard students cheat, Maine Governor Paul Lapage does not want kids reading newspapers and your IMs.

And keep the conversation going on the morning thread!

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Direct download: 02-04-13-Julie_Samuels-Bob_edgar-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:55pm EST